Ace Iowa Gun Laws & Firearms Safety 2026 – Lock and Load Your Success!

The eligibility to apply for a professional permit to carry weapons in Iowa is extended to both residents and non-residents who are working in the state. This inclusivity acknowledges that individuals who are not permanent residents but are employed in Iowa may require the ability to carry weapons for job-related purposes, such as security personnel or law enforcement auxiliary roles.

In contrast, the other options are too restrictive. While any resident of Iowa could apply, simply limiting eligibility to residents ignores the needs of non-residents who may be engaged in necessary professional activities within the state. Saying only law enforcement officials can apply excludes a broader range of professional roles that may necessitate carrying a weapon legally in Iowa. These considerations highlight the importance of accommodating qualified individuals regardless of their residency status as long as they meet the other criteria outlined in Iowa's gun laws.